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Better Business Bureau issues utilities scam warning

March 10, 2014

CHICAGO — On the heels of the bitter cold temperatures that have hit Chicago and Northern Illinois, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning on scam artists that are targeting individual consumers and businesses with the false claim that their utility bills are delinquent and their service is in danger of being disconnected.

The BBB has received calls from concerned consumers and businesses who state they have received calls from individuals claiming to be from either ComEd or Nicor making demands that they immediately make payment on their alleged delinquent accounts.

Whether the payment demand is purportedly for ComEd or Nicor, the callers ask that the consumers purchase a gift card or a Green Dot card and then call back with the card information to make a payment.

“If a consumer receives one of these calls they should never provide any personal or financial information to the caller” said Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Instead they should contact their utility company’s customer service department and verify that a call was made.”

Additionally, if you suspect that the call is fraudulent or you may be a victim of a scam you should contact your local police department.